Hate Crimes

A hate crime is any criminal offence committed against a person or property, which is motivated in whole or in part by the suspects’ hate, prejudice, or bias against an individual or identifiable group based on real or perceived race, national or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, or any other similar factor.

Hate incidents have a similar impact on the victim and the community as hate crimes do but there may not be grounds to proceed with criminal charges. However, other recourse may be available under other legislation such as the Alberta Human Rights Commission, the Residential Tenancy Act, and workplace/school policies and procedures.

If you are a victim or suspect someone is a victim of a hate crime please contact your local police